2016 NEW VEHICLE PREVIEW by Times Total Media

NEW

VEHICLE

s e l c i h e V w e N t c e l Se and Profiles

| Friday, November 13, 2015 | Tampa Bay Times

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Refinements and redesigns keep things exciting There was a time in the not-so-distant past when vehicles on display at auto shows were as predictable as Florida’s summer weather. There would be “family cars” (sedans, station wagons), performance models (American muscle, the rare European sports car), luxury land yachts, the odd compact, and, of course, pickups. Now, though, new models — “four-door coupe, anyone?” — are mutating faster than zombies on The Walking Dead. With that in mind, here are some cars to watch at the Tampa Bay International Auto Show. Muscle memory: The 2016 Chevrolet Camaro, the sixth generation of the venerable “pony car,” has been earning early raves for its athleticism — a description not often associated with the stop light- to stop-light muscle cars of the past. This Camaro is lighter, slightly smaller and now rides on the same platform as some of its Cadillac cousins. Plus, you can get your Camaro with a 4-cylinder — its first in 30 years. (Purists may shudder, but the turbo 4-cylinder engine produces a respectable 275 horsepower.) Keep on truckin’: The auto industry recently posted its best October sales in a decade. One of the segments driving those gains: pickup trucks. General Motors, in particular, should thank its Chevrolet Silverado and Colorado pickups. GM re-entered the fading midsize pickup market in the 2015 model year with the Colorado, and it proved to be popular with buyers who liked its slightly smaller scale, interior refinements, and cab and engine options (there’s an available turbodiesel). Still, the best-selling vehicle in America continues to be the Ford F-150, which was redesigned — to much fanfare for ‘15 with an all-aluminum body (a military-grade alloy, to be more precise). This innovation

has shaved 700 pounds from the truck, which now has Ford’s EcoBoost V-6 as one of its main engine options. So maybe instead of kicking the tires of a new F-150, you should gently rap your knuckles on a fender to see if you can tell the difference. Timely makeovers: If any best-seller was in need of a facelift, it was the Honda Civic, whose staid design was lagging behind the competition. No longer. The 2016 Civic has been completely redesigned with an aggressive look to win over buyers who also will like its new turbo engine and upgraded interior technology. Honda also remade its Pilot into a more family-friendly SUV. It morphs from boxy and functional to sleek and refined, and still has third-row seating. In the small crossover segment, the new 2016 Hyundai Tucson should turn heads with its “fluidic sculpture” styling. Along with its looks, the Tucson has a slightly more roomy cabin and long list of standard equipment. A worthy competitor is the equally stylish Mazda CX-5, which gets a minor refresh for ‘16. One thing that remains the same — the CX-5’s fun-todrive road demeanor. Another mild refresh hits the Kia Optima. This sharp midsize sedan grows slightly for ‘16 and gets a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine and 7-speed transmission. A crossover that should never be overlooked is the midsize Ford Edge with its roomy interior and accommodating car-like ride. New kid: The Honda HR-V debuts as a 2016 model as the automaker scrambles to join the subcompact-crossover segment. The HR-V, not to be confused with its big sibling, the popular midsize CR-V, shares underpinnings with the excellent Honda Fit and gets the Fit’s practical-for-families folding “Magic Seat” that allows you to configure cargo options. Your kids’ bulky packpacks? No problem. Practical luxury: Like other upscale automakers, Mercedes has gone all-in on crossovers and SUVs. The new 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC may be a compact crossover, but it goes big on cabin refinements. And then there’s the ’16 GLE, which M-B bills as a “four-door coupe.” Sure, it’s one of those categories automakers love to invent, but the GLE puts the “sport” in Sport Utility Vehicle, as the base model features a twin-turbo V-6.

About this section The 2016 New Vehicle Preview special section is produced by the Advertising and Marketing departments of the Tampa Bay Times. Automotive Advertising Manager: Larry West Designer: Ruben Carbonell Contributing Writer: Pete Couture Proofreader: Don Lee CHAIRMAN AND CEO Paul Tash ................................................................................................................................727-893-8887 VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND MARKETING Bruce Faulmann .................................................................................................................727-893-8984 SENIOR ADVERTISING MANAGER Michelle Mitchell ................................................................................................................727-893-8363 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Shane Brown.........................................................................................................................727-893-8102 Sue Povelones .....................................................................................................................813-661-2435 Terri Schneider ....................................................................................................................352-848-1414 Jane Smith ............................................................................................................................727-869-6216 Mike Wahl .............................................................................................................................727-893-8849 SALES ASSOCIATES Deborah Rodgers................................................................................................................727-893-8385 Melissa Flynn .......................................................................................................................727-893-8934

For editorial questions, please contact Chris Galbraith at 727-893-8535 or cgalbraith@tampabay.com.

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MAZDA CX-5 The CX-5’s smaller CX-3 relation is one cute and sporty little wagon that’s getting a lot of attention, but it does have its limitations. For a full load of people and cargo capacity, the bigger CX-5 is a better choice, and it looks pretty good, too, with an updated grille, and is just as lively a driver. The vehicle’s mechanical bits are part of Mazda’s Skyactiv system that’s more than just marketing puffery; it represents a holistic transformation of the powertrain, plus various other components, that helps save fuel and turns the entire lineup into exemplary driving machines. For the chassis and suspension, the automaker’s engineers have worked to infuse the CX-5 with some sporting behavior, combined with highly efficient engines and transmissions. The entry-point $22,600 CX-5 with front-wheel-drive and a five-speed manual gearbox uses a highcompression 2.0-liter four-cylinder that operates on low-grade 87-octane fuel and makes 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. The optional 2.5-liter four-cylinder increases the output to 184 horses and 185 pound-feet of torque. It also doesn’t penalize at the pump, as it consumes only slightly

OVERVIEW: Combine the CX-5’s “Kodo

Soul of Motion” styling with the Skyactiv powertrain and suspension technology and you have a remarkably agile compact wagon. A slightly modified exterior and interior head the list of 2016 changes.

DRIVETRAIN: Base 155-horsepower

four-cylinder, or more potent 184 horsepower engine remain; manual and optional automatic transmissions available, as is all-wheel-drive.

more fuel than the 2.0, even with its mandatory six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel-drive is available only with this powertrain combo. Mazda loads up even the most basic CX-5 model with air conditioning and the usual power-operated features, along with cruise control and

pushbutton start. Moving up to the Touring trim gets you Bluetooth connectivity, upgraded seats, a color display monitor, steering-wheel-mounted controls and a blind-spot warning system. The Grand Touring adds a moonroof, leather seat covers (heated in front), power-adjustable driver’s seat and dual-zone climate control. There’s also active smart braking technology that can “see” stopped cars in front and slow you down before a collision. For 2016, Mazda has upgraded the front and rear seats for all trims. Base price (incl. destination): $22,600 Type: Four-door compact tall wagon Base engine (hp): 2.0-liter DOHC I4 (155) Optional engines (hp): 2.5-liter DOHC I4 (184) Layout: Front-engine, front-/all-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed manual; six-speed automatic ) MPG (city/hwy..): 26/35 (2.0, MT) Weight (lbs.): 3,210

| Friday, November 13, 2015 | Tampa Bay Times

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HYUNDAI ELANTRA In a highly competitive market, the Elantra has remained popular with a combination of great looks, plenty of content and a competitive price. The spacious GT hatchback is arguably even better looking and is ideal for toting more of your stuff. Although slightly shorter overall than the sedan, the GT’s expanded cargo area allows for an impressive amount of room with the rear seat up and lots more with it folded flat. Base sedans use a 1.8-liter fourcylinder engine that puts out 145 horsepower and 130 pound-feet of torque. It’s rated at 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway with the optional six-speed automatic. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder that’s rated at 173 horses and 166 pound-feet of torque is available in the sedan, but comes standard with the GT. The base Elantra sedan and GT include the usual power-operated assortment, a six-speaker audio system, air conditioning, cruise control and more. Stepping up to the Sport and Limited sedan trims

OVERVIEW: Another carryover year for

Hyundai’s compact sedan before the launch of an all-new 2017 model; the GT hatchback will likely stay static for a bit longer.

DRIVETRAIN: A 1.8-liter four-cylin-

der engine is the mainstay for the sedan, while a 2.0-liter four-cylinder is optional but standard in the GT hatchback; six-speed manuals and automatics are available for both.

adds the 2.0 engine plus leather seats (heated in front and back), power sunroof, cruise control, power driver’s seat, pushbutton start and 17-inch wheels (16-inchers are standard). The option list includes keyless pushbutton start, automatic

headlights, premium 360-watt sound package and a touch screen navigation system with rearview camera. Both body styles can be had with optional items that include a navigation system, 360-watt premium sound system and dual-zone climate control. Base price (incl. destination): $18,100 (sedan); $19,600 (GT) Type: Four-door sedan; four-door hatchback wagon Base engine (hp): 1.8-liter DOHC I4 (145) Optional engines (hp): 2.0-liter I4 (173, std. for GT) Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed manual; six-speed automatic (opt.) MPG (city/hwy.): 27/37 (1.8, MT) Weight (lbs.): 2,770 (sedan)

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CHEVROLET COLORADO The midsize pickup market seemed like an empty toy box until the 2015 model year, when General Motors relaunched the Chevrolet Colorado and close facsimile GMC Canyon pickups after a three-year absence. Both are bigger and more powerful forms, but remain smaller and less capable than the full-size Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra. Still, for many pickup fans, they have plenty to offer, whether it’s the four-door Extended-Cab with a 62-inch box, or the four-door Crew Cab that comes with a 50-inch, or available 62-inch, bed (there is no Regular-Cab available). Each cab style can be had with a 200-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder or optional 305-horsepower V6. For 2016, they are joined by third option: a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder. The Duramax-badged engine produces 181 horsepower and a V6-trouncing 369 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard with the 2.5, while a six-speed automatic is optional but standard with the V6 and turbo-diesel. Interestingly, the V6 comes very close to matching the four-cylinder in the mpg department (20 in the city and 27 on the highway versus 18/26 for rear-wheel-drive models), although the new turbo-diesel will probably trump them both when its final figures are announced. The turbo-diesel now becomes the go-to model when

OVERVIEW: General Motors gets its

midsize groove back after a 2-modelyear absence; extended and crew cabs available.

DRIVETRAIN: Base four-cylinder and

optional V6 engines are now joined by a four-cylinder turbo-diesel, which will only inhabit top-end crew-cab models; four-wheel-drive available on all.

hauling payloads up to 1,800 pounds (up from 1,600 with the V6) or trailering up to 7,700 pounds, up 700 from the V6. That’s also more than double the 2.5’s capacity. Colorados can be had in base, WT (Work Truck), LT and Z71 4x4 trim levels, although the diesel is only available in the higher two. The Z51 is equipped with an off-road

suspension, locking rear differential, all-terrain rubber, automatic transmission and hill-descent control. All Colorados come with a corner step rear bumper (no need for an external stair to access the bed), a locking tailgate and two-tier loading that, by sliding braces and a platform that you supply, creates two separate cargo areas. There are, of course, a plethora of options and packages for the Colorado, including leather seats (heated in front), 8-inch touch screen, navigation system and a factory-installed spray-on bed liner. In terms of safety, forward-collision alert and lane-departure warning can be added (a rear-vision camera is standard). Base price (incl. destination): $21,000 Type: Four-door midsize pickup Base engine (hp): 2.5-liter DOHC I4 (200) Optional engines (hp): 3.6-liter DOHC V6 (305); 2.8-litre DOHC I4, turbocharged diesel (181) Layout: Front-engine, rear-/four-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed manual; six-speed automatic (opt.) MPG (city/hwy.): 19/26 (2.5 MT, RWD) Weight (lbs.): 3,960

Most technology just sort of runs in the background without you knowing it. And then there’s the in-your-face stuff

. . . like this.

As battery technology improves, there’s more driving range and faster charging, giving cars such as this prototype Porsche Mission E a better business case for production.

By TOM JENSEN,

WWW.WHEELBASEMEDIA.COM

echnology continues to evolve at a dizzying pace in the automotive world. This week, The Octane Lounge takes a closer look at some of the newest and most interesting products and projects out there.

HOT PURSUIT Dodge is giving beat cops a big assist with the new 2016 Dodge Charger Pursuit police car. The electronics system now incorporates a large 12.1-inch touchscreen in the dashboard, which Dodge calls Uconnect. The cool thing about it is that Uconnect integrates with law-enforcement computer systems. The big screen has five times the area of the standard Charger display screen. The system allows police officers to connect their computers via an Ethernet cable in the trunk. That means the officer’s bulky laptop doesn’t have to be mounted on the dash, where in a crash it could potentially dislodge and strike the officer or interfere with airbag deployment.

GREEN PATROL Speaking of law enforcement, BMW is loaning the Los Angeles Police Department an electric-powered BMW i3 for a year of evaluation under real-world duty. The car

This giant screen in the Dodge Charger police cars takes the place of the usual laptop computer, which resides in the trunk and is hooked to the system with an Ethernet cable.

GET CONNECTED For 2016, Volkswagen is launching an all-new infotainment system it calls MIB II that works with Apple’s new CarPlay, Google Android Auto and MirrorLink, systems that roughly mirror the operation of your phone on the vehicle touch screen.

has a range of 80-100 miles, which means it might make sense in an urban-patrol environment. Although no commitments have been made beyond the 12-month test period, electric vehicles likely will see increased use in major U.S. cities in the next decade.

NO HACKERS ALLOWED With the threat of automobile hacking a growing concern, a unique partnership is going to work to prevent hackers from accessing your car’s electronics. The South Carolina-based International Transportation Innovation Center (ITIC) and South Korean mobile network firm SK Telecom are collaborating on commercial applications of encryption technologies that are based on quantum physics, not the mathematics-based encryption algorithms commonly used today. The idea is to make cars hack proof. The ITIC recently demonstrated its technology in Washington, D.C. And they aren’t the only ones tackling the problem. Silicon Valley-based chipmaker Intel is putting together its own Automotive Security Board, which will work toward making cars more secure.

It took automakers years to make the decision to incorporate the environment of your mobile device. This is VW’s MIB II interface.

OCTANE LOUNGE

LIVE ACTS

CAMARO COMPARO: Chevrolet has released official performance figures for the all-new 2016 Camaro and they are indeed impressive. The new 455-horsepower Camaro SS accelerates to 60 mph from zero in four seconds flat, with a quarter-mile time of 12.3 seconds, which not long ago was supercar territory. Even the 335-horse V6 does 0-60 in 5.1 seconds and the quarter mile in 13.5 seconds.

TOY-RRIFIC: Toyota isn’t a company

known for radical styling, which makes its new C-HR Concept an especially bold departure. But Toyota said it hopes to have a production version of the sexy new compact tall wagon ready by next spring’s Geneva International Motor Show in Switzerland.

Volkswagen says it’s the first automaker to work with all three systems. The App-Connect system is already available on the 2016 Tiguan and Golf R,

SOBER STEERING Although great strides have been made in the fight against drunk driving,

and Volkswagen will offer it on more than 75 percent of its 2016 models. The

the battle continues and a small company based in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada

only VW cars that won’t have it this year are the Touareg tall wagon and the

is helping lead the fight. Sober Steering is brilliant in its simplicity: a sensor

Eos convertible. VW is launching an aggressive advertising and social media

pad mounts on the steering wheel. A driver starts the car and then touches

campaign to promote MIB II.

his or her hand to the sensor. If their alcohol level is within acceptable pre-set limits, the car operates as normally. If not, the vehicle is immediately immobilized. Sober Steering was named one of the top-10 automotive startups by the Los Angeles Auto Show’s Connected Car Expo.

MISSION E We couldn’t do this column without including at least one cutting-edge vehicle, so here goes: although many details remain to be finalized, Porsche plans to offer an all-electric car to take on the much-vaunted Tesla. Porsche’s prototype, dubbed “Mission E,” was unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show in Germany in September. The key metrics: the Mission E is designed to go 310 miles on a full charge and can be recharged to 80 percent of its battery life in just 15 minutes. Those numbers best that of rival Tesla. Alas, no mention yet from Porsche on

Expect more electric cars to find their way into the service of police departments, such as this BMW i3.

pricing or production schedule.

Tesla has proven that there are people willing to spend more than $100,000 on an electric car. So how much would they be willing to spend on a Porsche like the Mission E?

| Friday, November 13, 2015 | Tampa Bay Times

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CHEVROLET CAMARO With the 2015 redesigned Ford Mustang and significantly updated Dodge Challenger models (including the mind-blowing 707-horsepower Hellcat version), what more could fans of old-school-style American muscle wish for? Well, that would be an all-new, sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro to keep pace with the competition. The 2016 edition sticks with the same general look as the previous car, including the high-profile door lines. Inside, a completely modernized interior does away with the annoying tunnel-style gauge pods that weren’t all that popular when they were installed in the original car nearly a half century ago. The new dash is clearly more user friendly, with an 8-inch screen displaying vital info between the tach and speedometer, and another optional screen of the same size on the control panel for the navigation, communications and audio systems. The new car has a stiffer chassis and is slightly shorter and narrower than the 2015 model. The weight was also cut by as much as 390 pounds. That amount relates to the base LT model equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Of course, the Camaro becomes heavier with the installation of either the 3.6-liter V6 (335 horsepower/284 pound-feet) or the Corvette-based 6.2-liter V8 (455 horsepower/455

OVERVIEW: Chevrolet’s answer to

the new-for-2015 Mustang is more power in a smaller and slightly lighter package.

DRIVETRAIN: Base models are moti-

vated by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder; both the V6 and V8 return in beefed-up form; six-speed manual transmissions or optional eight-speed automatics for all.

pound-feet) that’s exclusive to the SS trim. All three powerplants are available with six-speed manual transmissions or available eight-speed automatics. However, the V8’s manual gearbox gets a rev-matching program that blips the throttle when downshifting. Matching the engine speed to the transmission keeps things nice and smooth at the back end. Regardless of which powertrain

you select, you’ll still have a quick car on your hands; the slowest being the base turbo with the automatic that Chevrolet claims can get to 60 mph from rest in 5.5 seconds (the quickest Camaro SS does it in 4.0). There’s no word yet whether or when the higher-performing ZL1 or Z/28 models will show up, but given the racy Mustang GT350’s 2016 return with 526 horsepower, it shouldn’t be too long. The convertible version will join the coupe part way into the 2016 model year. Base price (incl. destination): $26,700 Type: Two-door sports coupe/convertible Base engine (hp): 2.0-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (275) Optional engine (hp): 3.6-liter DOHC V6 (335); 6.2-liter OHV V8 (455) Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed manual; eight-speed automatic (opt.) MPG (city/hwy.): 26/32 (I4, MT) Weight (lbs.): 3,340 NEW FOR

2016

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MERCEDES-BENZ GLC Mercedes-Benz’s model realignment continues apace with the newly branded GLC, a vehicle that was previously called the GLK. The result is better proportioned than its blocky predecessor and offers a much-improved environment for passengers. Although still a smallish midsize wagon, the GLC300 is a full 4 inches longer between the axles than the GLK and 5-inches longer overall. Moreover, the GLC is nearly 200 pounds lighter, although some of that decrease is likely due to a smaller base engine. For the vehicle’s debut, Mercedes-Benz toned down the GLC’s performance, deleted the turbo-diesel option and instead went for a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. It’s a far cry from the previous 302-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 that used to be the standard gasoline powerplant. The engine is sourced from the current C-Class sedan, but it doesn’t share that model’s seven-speed automatic transmission. Instead, an all-new

OVERVIEW: What’s in a name? It used to be called the GLK-Class; now this wagon has become the larger, but lighter, GLC-Class.

DRIVETRAIN: Turbocharged four-

cylinder engine borrowed from the C-class makes a modest 241-horsepower; new nine-speed automatic transmission functions with rear- or all-wheel-drive models.

nine-speed automatic picks the gears for you. As before, rear-wheel-drive is standard, while Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel-drive is an option click (and an extra $2,000) away, and well worth it for more secure all-weather driving. Among the GLC’s

unique options is an air-ride suspension (in place of steel springs), which has to be a first in a class that includes the Audi RDX, BMW X3, Lincoln MKC and Audi Q5. Another extra-cost upgrade is an active damping system that continually, as in milliseconds, adjusts the shocks’ firmness while negotiating turns or when traveling over rough or uneven roads. Base price (incl. destination): $40,000 Type: Four-door, rear-/all-wheel-drive compact sport-utility vehicle Base engine (hp): 2.0-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (241) Layout: Front-engine, rear-/all-wheel-drive Transmissions: Nine-speed automatic MPG (city/hwy.): 24/34 (est.) Weight (lbs.): 3,890 NEW FOR

2016

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HONDA CIVIC Honda introduced the 2016 Civic coupe and sedan during a live-streaming press conference in September, only to leave out pretty much every significant detail, from power and options to price. That info will come out in due course, but for now it’s known that a 2.0-liter four-cylinder will be the standard engine on Civic LX and EX models, while a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder (the first turbo engine in a Honda product to be sold in North America) will find its way inside the premium EX-T, Ex-L and Touring trim levels. A six-speed manual transmission and optional continuously variable unit (CVT) can be matched to the 2.0, while the 1.5 turbo gets its own unique CVT. That engine will also reportedly achieve a highway fuel-economy rating of 40 mpg. The Civic sedan grows by 1.2 inches in wheelbase, is 2 inches wider and sits an inch closer to the ground. These changes will make the Civic the roomiest in the compact-sedan class, says Honda. The coupe’s dimensions should similarly increase, but Honda isn’t launching it until midway into the 2016 model year. At that time, it’s expected that an all-new Civic hatchback will also arrive and a hot Si coupe and

OVERVIEW: Honda classes up its

compact-car act with sharp-looking 10th-generation sedan and coupe models, available with a plethora of high-tech gear. Coupe arrives midseason; hatchback and Si versions arrive later, followed by potent Type R.

DRIVETRAIN: A non turbo 2.0-liter

four-cylinder is standard on lower trim levels; turbo four-cylinder on up-level models makes more horsepower and torque and will also be the fuel-economy champ; six-speed manual or optional continuously

variable transmissions, standard on top-end 6.2-liter V8.

a bit of weight. Among the list of available new features is a full range of crash-avoiding software that falls under the Honda Sensing label. These include forward-collision and road-departure warnings and adaptive cruise control that slows down or stops the vehicle in stop-and-go driving situations. Base price (incl. destination): $19,300 Type: Four-door sedan; two-door coupe Base engine (hp): 2.0-liter DOHC I4 (158, est.) Optional engines (hp): 1.5-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (170, est.) Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed manual; continuously variable MPG (city/hwy.): 35/42 Weight (lbs.): 2,600 (est.) NEW FOR

sedan will also return. Meanwhile, the sedan’s new platform is now 25 percent stiffer while dropping

2016

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THE FUTURE ® OF TOUGH .

FORD F-150

High-strength, military grade aluminum alloy body.

Sponsored by Walker Ford. See our ad on the next page.

There were plenty of naysayers claiming that the world’s best-selling pickup might have lost its crown to General Motors and Ram. But a year into its new life, Ford’s adoption of aluminum body panels for the F-150 remains one heck of a game changer, and in more ways than one. Ford’s switch from steel to more dent- and ding- and rust-averse aluminum body panels saved as much as 700 pounds (Ford claims), depending on whether you’re talking about Regular-, Extended SuperCab or four-door SuperCrew versions. All are perched on a new ladder-type frame that’s also stronger and actually lighter by a few pounds. The reduced heft allows properly kitted-out F-150s to tote and tow bigger payloads, which is what pickup trucks are all about, right? For 2016, a new optional Pro Trailer Backup system combines a revised rear-view camera with more helpful lines on the display and a standalone knob that drivers can twist back and forth to guide the truck exactly where it needs to go. The system is similar to Ford’s self-parking technology, which means you don’t have to use the steering wheel. Under the hood, base trucks come with a 3.5-liter V6 with 283 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque, while a twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 that’s rated at 325 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque is optional. Carried over from last year are two of Ford’s workhorse power plants: a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 producing 365 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque; and a

OVERVIEW: After being retooled from

top to bottom for 2015 to be stronger, faster and lighter thanks to an aluminum body, the F-150 will now make it easier than ever to park like a pro.

DRIVETRAIN: The V6 and V8 engines are joined by two turbocharged EcoBoost V6s; all receive six-speed automatic transmissions; fourwheel-drive optional, of course; dune-jumping second-generation SVT Raptor is on the horizon.

5.0-liter V8 worth 385 horsepower and 387 pound-feet of torque. The old 6.2-liter V8 that was standard in the way-off-road-capable SVT Raptor has been dropped, with the second-gen Baja bruiser getting a version of the all-new 600-horsepower 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 found in the stunning Ford GT supercar. Inside, the cabin, or “office” for many truck owners, was completely transformed and in up-level models approaches luxury-car standards, particularly the Lariat and King Ranch trims. The FX4 off-road option package (firmer suspension, skid plates and a locking rear axle) can be added to most 4x4 models. Base price (incl. destination): $26,900 Type: Two-/four-door pickup Base engine (hp): 3.5-liter DOHC V6 (283) Optional engines (hp): 2.7-liter DOHC V6; turbocharged (325); 3.5-liter DOHC V6, turbocharged (365); 5.0-liter DOHC V8 (385) Layout: Front-engine, rear-/four-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed automatic MPG (city/hwy.): 17/24 (3.5, 4x2) Weight (lbs.): 4,500 (est.)

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KIA OPTIMA Until recently, the top dog in Kia’s sedan kennel was the Optima, but this midsize sedan now finds itself sharing quarters with the larger Cadenza and largerstill K900 luxury models. Still, the Optima more than holds its own with buyers, especially so now with a new-generation model hitting the showroom floor. Exterior styling, an Optima strong suit, hasn’t been drastically altered, but the car’s overall dimensions have increased slightly due to a new platform that gives it a bit more length and width. The most important changes have taken place beneath the hood. The base 2.4-liter engine has been tweaked for fuel efficiency’s sake and now makes 185 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque, slightly less than the previous 192/181. Newly optional is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder that’s rated at 178/195. At the top end, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 245/260, down from the previous 274/269 ratings. The 2.4 and 2.0 power

OVERVIEW: More than simply a makeover, the Optima has plenty of new sheet metal that’s stretched over an equally new platform.

DRIVETRAIN: A trio of four-cylinder

engines of the turbo and non turbo variety provide plenty of choice; six-speed manual transmission and seven-speed automated manual.

plants are mated to six-speed automatic transmissions, but the turbo 1.6 receives its own sevenspeed automated manual transmission. Note that the hybrid hasn’t been included in the makeover process, but that will likely happen sometime in

2016. With four trim levels, base LX, EX, SX and SXL, the Optima cuts a wide swath to satisfy a variety of budgets. Throw in the car’s classy looks along with a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty and it’s game-on for Kia in the midsize sedan arena. Base price (incl. destination): $23,000 (est.) Type: Four-door sedan Base engine (hp): 2.4-liter DOHC I4 (185) Optional engines (hp): 1.6-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (178); 2.0-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (245) Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed automatic; seven-speed automated manual (opt.) MPG (city/hwy.): 23/34 (2.4) Weight (lbs.): 3,250 NEW FOR

2016

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MERCEDES-BENZ GLE COUPE If you haven’t heard, Mercedes-Benz is finetuning the nomenclature of some of its models. For 2016, the GLK-Class compact wagon has become the GLC-Class, and the former M-Class has escaped from its chrysalis and turned into the GLE-Class. In addition, the GLE is now available as a four-door hatchback that M-B insists is a “coupe.” As with the M-Class, the GLE offers a repertoire of four-cylinder, V6 and V8 powerplants that range from fuel-minded to take-no-prisoners high-output. Every engine gets the same seven-speed automatic transmission, and all models have 4MATIC all-wheel-drive except the base GLE350, with its 302-horsepower V6 that’s rear-wheel-drive only. They are joined by a plug-in hybrid model that combines a 329-horsepower V6 with an 85-kilowatt (114-horsepower) electric motor for a total system output of 436 horsepower. The GLE550e, as it’s called, can function on battery alone for up to 18 miles and cruise at speeds up to 80 mph before the V6 joins in to help out. The other fuel sipper, the 201-horsepower four-cylinder GLE30d turbo-diesel, is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway. Both the hybrid and the turbo-diesel

OVERVIEW: It’s a new name for the

previous ML-class tall wagon, plus an all-new tall-hatchback variant.

DRIVETRAIN: A non turbo V6, turbo-

charged V6 and V8 engines (the latter installed in AMG hotrods), a four-cylinder turbo-diesel and a plug-in hybrid that combines a V6 with an electric motor; seven-speed automatics for all.

are only installed in GLE wagons, as is the twin-turbocharged 329-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine in the GLE 400. A 362-horsepower offshoot of the 3.0 is standard in the GLE 450 AMG hatchback coupe. There’s also the AMG GLE63 S coupe that comes with a 577-horspower twin-turbocharged

5.5-liter V8. The wagon version is rated at 550 horsepower. Fully loaded models display wood trim with satin-nickel garnish and stitched-leather seat covers. Long-distance drivers might want to pop for the available multicontour front seats that’ll massage your stress away. Base price (incl. destination): $52,000 (GLE350 wagon); $66,000 (GLE450 coupe) Type: Four-door sport utility wagon/hatchback Base engine (hp): 3.5-liter DOHC V6 (302) Optional engines (hp): 2.1-liter DOHC I4, turbo-diesel (201); 3.0-liter DOHC V6, twinturbocharged (329/362); 5.5-liter DOHC V8, twinturbocharged (550/577), 3.0-liter DOHC V6 with electric motor (436, net) Layout: Front-engine, rear-/ four-wheel-drive Transmissions: Seven-speed automatic) NEW FOR MPG (city/hwy.): 18/24 (3.5)

2016

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Tampa Bay Times | Friday, November 13, 2015 |

NISSAN MAXIMA The latest “Max” covers a broad spectrum, from well-equipped luxury mount to agile sport sedan capable of snaking around curves and tackling straightaways at a reasonably rapid pace. Visually, the car displays a level of aggressiveness that makes most other automakers’ luxury sedans appear staid by comparison. The flashy chrome grille, curvaceous body panels and sweeping rear end signal that this Nissan loves flaunting its stuff. Underpinning the attractive body is the next-generation Altima-based architecture that’s lighter as well as 25 percent more rigid. The new sheet metal adds just over 2 inches to the car’s length, but a slightly lowered and elongated roofline makes the Maxima appear much longer. Inside, the controls are straightforward, the Zero Gravity front chairs are supportive and the pushbutton starter has migrated to the console right next to the shifter. The Maximna’s 3.5-liter V6 sends 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with seven built-in steps and Sport and Normal operating modes. For 2016, Maximas are available in five distinct trim levels with

OVERVIEW: Nissan states that its

eighth-generation Maxima sedan is every inch a “four-door sports car.” We’ve heard that before, but they might be right this time!

DRIVETRAIN: A solid-performing V6

makes 300 horsepower; the continuously variable transmission is easy to live with.

virtually no options in any of them. The base S is stuffed with dual-zone climate control and a navigation system with 8-inch touch screen display. There’s also an eight-way power driver’s seat and a four-way power passenger’s seat as well as a number of crash-avoidance monitors, alerts and interventions. The SV adds leather seat covers (heated in front) and parking sensors, while the dual-panel panoramic

moonroof and high-end Bose stereo are SL goodies. The top-end Platinum comes with a drowsy-driver alert that warns if you’re nodding off behind the wheel. There’s also a system that detects people or objects approaching in the vehicle’s path. For enthusiasts, the sporty SR includes most Platinum content, but deletes the moonroof to help lower the car’s center of gravity and maximize structural integrity. The SR comes with paddle shifters, 19-inch wheels (18-inchers are standard) and electronically controlled dampers that firm up the ride. Base price (incl. destination): $33,000 Type: Four-door full-size sedan Base engine (hp): 3.5-liter DOHC V6 (280) Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Transmissions: Continuously variable (CVT) MPG (city/hwy.): 22/30 Weight (lbs.): 3,540

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FORD EDGE Of the Detroit-based automakers, only Ford is really making a move to smaller engines, and especially so for the 2016 Edge. The sexy wagon arrives with a 245-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as the base engine. It can be had with all-wheel-drive and can muscle up to 3,500 pounds of trailer weight. Also on board is a twin-turbocharged 325-horsepower 2.7-liter V6 that’s standard in the appropriately named Edge Sport, and optional in the premium Titanium trim level. The Sport’s previous 305-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 gets the boot. Sandwiched between the two turbo engines is the returning (and now optional) 285-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. All three are mated to six-speed automatic transmissions with paddleshift controls. A sport setting lets the engine rev to a higher limit in each gear for more spirited driving. Normal and Sport modes are also part of the Edge’s adaptive-steering system. It makes it easier to park in a tight spot while being more responsive during high-speed maneuvering. The optional all-wheeldrive system can direct up to 100 percent of the torque to either the front or rear axles, as needed.

OVERVIEW: The second-generation

Ford Edge makes all the right moves, especially in Sport trim.

DRIVETRAIN: Four-cylinder and V6 tur-

bo engines plus a non turbo V6 give you a wide choice of power options; all with six-speed automatic transmissions and available all-wheel-drive.

The engine lineup might be the Edge’s major drawing card, but there are additional obvious and unseen changes to report. A hexagonal-shaped grille softens the Edge’s look, while the roofline is more swept and the LED taillights are narrower and extend into the liftgate. The body panels are attached to an equally new platform that originated with the current Ford Fusion and is considerably more resistant to bending and twisting. The passen-

ger space has been designed with more supportive seats, more storage bins and cubbies and an 8-inch touch screen for the audio, infotainment, navigation and climate controls. The most basic of the Edge’s four trim levels has plenty of comfort content. Beyond that, the list of available safety and technology gear seems almost endless. Among the more intriguing is a 180-degree front camera that scans for unseen cross traffic at intersections. Then there’s active park assist that will guide the Edge into, as well as out of, a parallel-parking spot. Base price (incl. destination): $29,100 (2015) Type: Four-door tall wagon Base engine (hp): 2.0-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (245) Optional engines (hp): 2.7-liter DOHC V6, turbocharged (325); 3.5-liter DOHC V6 (285) Layout: Front-engine, front-/all-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed automatic MPG (city/hwy.): 20/30 (2.0) Weight (lbs.): 3,910

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HYUNDAI TUCSON In a field dominated by the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4, buyers aren’t lacking for choice. With each successive effort, the Tucson closes the gap with its pack peers to a point where it would be foolish not to include it on your long list. The Tucson’s design mimics that of the larger Santa Fe, especially when it comes to the trapezoidal grille. The Hyundai gains 3 inches in overall length while the front and rear wheels are set 1 inch farther apart. Interior volume with the split-folding rear seat in place also increases by an impressive 20 percent. The rear seat now reclines 37 degrees, and the dashboard/control panel is now cleaner and more businesslike. The base SE gets a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 164 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Eco, Sport and Limited versions feature a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder that delivers 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. It replaces the previously optional non turbo 2.4-liter four-cylinder rated at 182/177. A six-speed automatic transmission connects to the 2.0, while a segment-exclusive seven-speed automated manual transmission is hooked to the turbo 1.6. All-wheel-drive is optional with either engine. The unit has an AWD lock control

OVERVIEW: The Tucson is poised to

go from contender to leader in the compact tall-wagon class.

DRIVETRAIN: A choice of non turbo or turbo engines; AWD available with either one.

switch that lets you “hold” the torque split equally between the front and rear wheels for maximum traction on rough terrain. AWD can also direct extra torque to the outside rear wheel when the Tucson is turning, while at the same time applying light braking to the inside rear wheel. This “torque vectoring” makes for more stable cornering. For improved ride comfort and control, Hyundai has stiffened the front and rear suspension attachment points, upgraded the engine mounts and bushings and increased the amount of sound insulation. All Tucsons come with the usual power-operated

features plus air conditioning. Along with the turbo engine, the Eco adds exterior roof rails plus an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support. Sport buyers get heated front seats, pushbutton start, the latest collision-mitigating/avoidance tech and 19-inch wheels (17-inchers are standard). The top-end Limited includes dual-zone climate control, leather-covered seats, LED headlights and taillights and a combination premium sound/navigation system. Among the few available options is a panoramic sunroof and ventilated front seats. Base price (incl. destination): $23,600 Type: Four-door subcompact wagon Base engine (hp): 2.0-liter DOHC I4 (164) Optional engines (hp): 1.6-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (175) Layout: Front-engine, front-/all-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed automatic; seven-speed automated manual (opt.) MPG (city/hwy.): 21/26 (2.0) Weight (lbs.): 3,600 NEW FOR

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JEEP WRANGLER Jeep’s iconic Wrangler enjoys a hardcore following, but to keep fans coming back for more, the company keeps finding new ways to personalize. Of course, few owners goes boulder-hopping and canyon-crawling in their Wranglers (the Jeep, not the Jeans), and the vehicle has been slowly and methodically updated to also be more friendly to urban commuters. But do good seats and a modern powertrain hurt the offroad experience? Of course not, so it’s really win-win. But there’s more. The back seat of the four-door Unlimited model, as well as the soft-top, both fold easily using, amazingly, just one hand. And the hard-top, doors and bumper caps can more easily be removed with a new standard “torx” tool kit. Both two- and four-door Wranglers can be ordered with a premium top that reportedly is easier to clean, and its three layers add a degree of noise insulation. Unchanged is the Chrysler-designed 285-horsepower V6 that connects to either a six-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed automatic. The combo provides for an mpg rating of 17 city and 21 highway (16/21 for Unlimited versions). Base Sport, Sahara and Rubicon trim levels continue; the first two feature part-time four-wheel-drive with optional limited-slip rear differential. The tough-customer Rubicon uses the

OVERVIEW: Jeep’s iconic off-roader

gets its usual barrel of packages and editions, including a new “Black Bear Edition.”

DRIVETRAIN: The 3.6-liter V6 makes

285 horsepower and 260 poundfeet of torque, but isn’t it about time for the 5.7-liter Hemi or the Chrysler turbo-diesel?; six-speed manual transmission and optional five-speed automatic.

Off-Road Rock-Trac unit with its extra-low-range gearing, front-/rear-locking differentials for greater agility and 32-inch off-road rubber. For extreme rock crawling and cliff scaling, there’s the two- or four-door Rubicon X. It features special BF Goodrich off-road tires and Trak-Lok anti-spin rear differentials

with available electronic rear lockup. If you don’t know or care what this is, then it’s best to stick with a “normal” Wrangler. When equipped with a manual transmission Wrangler Rubicon X has a crawl ratio of, incredibly, 73:1. It also includes a “power dome” hood, premium rock rails and matching black front and rear off-road bumpers, black wheel arches and black 17-inch wheels. The new-for-2016 Black Bear edition adds special decals on the hood, off-road rock rails, gray trim and bumpers and 17-inch wheels, while the inside gets iron-gray bezels and handles, air conditioning and more. Base price (incl. destination): $24,000 (2015) Type: Two-/four-door sport-utility vehicle Base engine (hp): 3.6-liter DOHC V6 (285) Optional engines (hp): 5.3-liter OHV V8 (355); 6.2-liter OHV V8 (420) Layout: Front-engine, rear-/four-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed manual; five-speed automatic (opt.) MPG (city/hwy.): 17/21 (MT) Weight (lbs.): 3,760

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HONDA PILOT Honda’s third-generation Pilot sheds its previous boxy structure that made it look a little too stiff and rigid. The automaker has determined that a softened appearance will broaden the Pilot’s already broad appeal. That same approach has worked well with the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder and Chevrolet Traverse, whose utility also caters to family life. The new Pilot grows by 3.5 inches in overall length and by nearly 2 inches between the front and rear wheels. The roof line is slightly lower for improved aerodynamics. The changes mean a bit more passenger legroom plus slightly more room behind the third-row seat. The rear side door openings make third-row access a bit easier, while pushbuttons on the outer edges of the second-row bench, or newly optional individual high-back chairs, make them super easy to slide and tilt forward. The engine is the latest rendition of Honda’s 3.5-liter V6 that makes 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, up from the previous 250/253 rating. Base models come with a six-speed automatic transmission, while top-end versions employ a nine-speed transmission. All-wheel-drive

OVERVIEW: What Honda vehicle seats

up to eight passengers, has movingvan stowage capacity and comes with a standard V6 engine?

DRIVETRAIN: The usual V6 is backed by six- and nine-speed automatic transmissions; front and all-wheel-drive.

is optional with LX, EX and EX-L but standard with Touring and Elite. Unlike most competing systems, the AWD can direct 100 percent of the rear torque to the outside wheel while turning, without applying braking force to the inside wheel. The resulting “torque vectoring” creates more corning control/ stability with reduced understeer (the natural tendency for the vehicle to travel in a straight line

when the steering wheel is turned). AWD-equipped Pilots also have Intelligent Traction Management that lets the driver vary torque delivery to the four wheels via Normal, Snow, Mud and Sand settings. Over the road, a combination of a few hundred pounds less heft, more power and AWD improvements provide the 2-ton-plus Pilot with impressive acceleration with a noticeable crispness in the turns, which is a quality that many of its competitors lack. We’re not talking sports car-like by any means, but the Pilot’s sharpness is reassuring. Base price (incl. destination): $44,000 Type: Four-door full-size tall wagon Base engine (hp): 3.5-liter DOHC V6 (280) Layout: Front-engine, front-/all-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-/nine-speed automatic MPG (city/hwy.): 19/27 Weight (lbs.): 4,050

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HONDA HR-V Think of the HR-V as the middle child of Honda’s small wagon lineup. In length it’s exactly halfway between the larger Honda CR-V and the smaller Fit. The vehicle’s sloping roofline is more hatchback than wagon, but in terms of cargo volume, the HR-V beats the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage and is significantly ahead on volume compared to the Chevrolet Trax and Jeep Renegade. The HR-V shares the Fit’s chassis and is built at the same plant in Mexico. Among other things, it means that the fuel tank is located in the center of the vehicle beneath the front seats, allowing for a flat floor and ample legroom for rear-seat passengers. As with the Fit, the back seat cushion folds up, which comes in handy when transporting tall objects. The HR-V’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder produces 141 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque. It connects to a six-speed manual transmission or optional continuously variable unit (CVT) with optional paddle shifters that control seven preset ratios. The optional all-wheeldrive stands ready to shift torque to the rear wheels if the fronts begin to slip. Note that models with AWD must have the CVT. The base LX trim arrives

OVERVIEW: Among other small hatchback wagons, the HR-V is generously midsized.

DRIVETRAIN: The HR-V’s 1.8 liter

four-cylinder produces 141 horsepower and 127 pound/feet of torque. Select either the six-speed manual transmission or optional CVT with paddle shifters.

with an impressive level of content, including climate control, heated front seats, 7-inch touch screen display that controls the audio and communications systems, rearview camera, electric parking brake, 160-watt audio system and 17-inch alloy wheels. The EX adds dual-zone climate control, a

power moonroof, pushbutton start, 180-watt stereo, fog lights and Honda’s camera-based LaneWatch system that displays side views of approaching traffic whenever the turn signals are activated. Atop the HR-V’s trims, the EX-L Navi has leather seat covers, roof rails, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, forward collision and lane-departure warnings and, of course, navigation. Even fully loaded, you can drive an HR-V home for less than 30 grand, which is reason enough to scope one out. Base price (incl. destination): $20,000 Type: Four-door compact wagon Base engine (hp): 4.3-liter OHV V6 (285) Optional engines (hp): 1.8-liter DOHC I4 (141) Layout: Front-engine, front-/all-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed manual, continuously variable (CVT) MPG (city/hwy.): 25/34 (FWD) Weight (lbs.): 2,890

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Tampa Bay Times | Friday, November 13, 2015 |

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CHEVROLET SILVERADO HIGH-STRENGTH STEEL FOR HIGH-STRENGTH DEPENDABILITY

Only into its third model year Chevrolet is giving its legendary Silverado line a good old facelift. The front end sees a taller grille, with squintier headlights replacing the “old” upright ones. Upscale models will get LED running and fog lights, while high-intensity-discharge (HID) headlights are available. The front bumper and lower fascia are reshaped, too, but the rest of the truck still looks familiar. Behind the tailgate, the handy corner step bumper has recessed footholds that, combined with built-in handholds inside the box, make accessing the bed much easier. All body styles, Regular, Extended Double Cab (featuring front-hinged rear doors with outside handles) and four-door Crew Cab, are attached to frames with lots of high-strength steel, extra bracing for stiffness and body mounts that help isolate road noise and vibration. You can order the Crew Cab with a longer 80-inch bed (the standard bed is 68 inches) and you’ll get a choice of three all-aluminum engines. The entry point is a 4.3-liter V6 that has the same displacement as the previous V6, but output has significantly increased to 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque from 195/260. Optional is a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horses and 383 pound-feet. An available 6.2-liter V8 is rated at 420 horsepower and 440 pound-feet and shares much of its guts with the Corvette engine, but for 2016 both V8s get the Corvette’s eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 carries

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OVERVIEW: Chevrolet’s 2-year-old

Silverado gets a midlife facelift and continues to improve with better transmissions and more technology.

DRIVETRAIN: Line of Ecotec3 engines

has direct fuel injection and variablevalve timing for broader power range and improved economy; six-speed automatic transmissions for base V6 engine, but both the middle 5.3-liter V8 and top-end 6.2 now use the eight-speed automatic.

over with a six-speed automatic. Although a rough-and-tumble pickup truck, the Silverado’s model range also extends to include a premium High Country model to appeal to wealthy ranchers and city slickers. The best part about this truck is its highly optioned leather interior that places it above the previous top-of-the-line LTZ. Also for 2016 is an available built-in Wi-Fi hotspot to allow all aboard to access the Internet. There will also be support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with more active safety technologies. Base price (incl. destination): $27,100 (2015) Type: Full-size pickup Base engine (hp): 4.3-liter OHV V6 (285) Optional engines (hp): 5.3-liter OHV V8 (355); 6.2-liter OHV V8 (420) Layout: Front-engine, rear-/four-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed automatic; eightspeed automatic (5.3; 6.2) MPG (city/hwy.): 18/24 (4.3) Weight (lbs.): 4,940 NEW FOR

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